Hi there,

I'm meeting with several large networking groups this week to get my business jump started.

Would I be comitting soem kind of carreer suicide if I offered a one time only discount of X% if they sign up with me that day only?

Since this is a one-time "special" event, I see no problem in doing this. Curious to see what others say.

Just make sure you take plenty of "sign up" forms with you - I have a feeling you'll need them.

Do you know what you'll include on your sign up form (what information you'll collect)?

You might consider including a time/day that you can contact them for a "free" consult (worth $xx - this lets them know that this is a great deal, too - it's free to them, but you also assign a dollar value to it so it's of value - hope this made sense, LOL) to discuss their needs. Something like: Free consultation valued at $xx.

You might consider package deals. They are a great way to offer a "discount" for your services by bundling services you feel PCs may find of help to them. A side note: sometimes with package deals you end up making more $$.

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Jules, SunRise Virtual Solutions - WordPress Customization & XHTML/CSS Web Sites

There was another recent thread that had quite a bit of discussion regarding this same issue. You can read it here, hope it helps!

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Kate V. Kerans
Kerans Virtual Assistance

I have struggled with this concept, also and am considering targeting some local individuals who would be good to get into my portfolio. They would need to complete a final questionnaire before getting the "deal" (that I could develop some testimonials from) ~~ would be my "condition" for a special rate or package. Just in the thought stage with it

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Melissa Rahko
www.offsitesecretary.com

Having attended a number of networking meets in the past year I would personally say it's suicide. The purpose of networking events is to meet, greet and get to know each other and it's necessary to go to these events regularly so people get to know you. People work with people they know, like, trust and have formed some sort of relationship with.

If you go to an event just to sell your services, offer people a "deal" if they sign up "now" they'll feel pressured, run away and avoid you for the rest of the event. But they will remember you - remember to run the other way any time they see you. Always go to events as if they were a business function. Plan to meet, talk to, get to know and exchange business cards with 5 people each time. It takes a lot of time, patience and perseverance but it will grow you a business with quality clients in the long term.

I'm just finishing up a 6 week (volunteer) gig as part of the executive committee on a local campaign for mayor (he won ... yay!). Many influential and "old boys club" people on board, they've come to know me and raved about the quality of my work, plus of course my van has been parked outside HQ with it's splashy signage all the time. I have no doubt that it will gain me some quality clients down the road.

Just my personal thoughts.

Good Luck with your business!

Lynne

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The Wordpro Wizard
www.wordprowizard.com

If this is the first time meeting with the groups, then go there to do just that. However, if you are familiar with attendees, or have previously met them, then offering some type of one time discount could entice people at the very least to speak more in depth with you. I would not put the "sign up today" stipulation on it as you look like you are only there for the business.

Try something like: As I get to know each of you, I am offering a Getting to Know You package for X% off so that you can see if VA will work on taking your business to the next level. I am available to discuss what is holding you back. Make it about them and not about you.

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Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant